The doctor named a common plant that helps fight diseases more effectively, strengthens the immune system and may reduce the risk of cancer, Sports.kz reports with reference to Rbc.ua.
What herbal plant is a natural immunomodulator, says RBC-Ukraine (Styler project) with a link to the Facebook page of nutritionist Oleg Shvets.
What are the beneficial properties of Echinacea?
Echinacea is a genus of perennial herbaceous plants in the Asteraceae family. It occurs in North America, where these plants grow in prairies and open forests. There are nine species in total, but only three are used in herbal products: Echinacea purpurea, angustifolia and pale coneflower. To prepare tablets, tinctures, extracts and tea, both the upper parts of the plant and the roots are taken.
Today, preparations of purple echinacea are popular as over-the-counter herbal remedies used for colds. They are also used to treat pain, inflammation, migraines and other health problems.
Echinacea plants contain an amazing variety of active compounds such as caffeic acid, alkamides, phenolic acids, rosmarinic acid, polyacetylenes, etc. Research has linked echinacea to many health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving immunity, and lowering blood sugar levels.
Rich in antioxidants
Echinacea contains beneficial flavonoids, as well as chicoric and rosmarinic acid, which are antioxidants. They help protect cells from oxidative stress associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. More antioxidants are found in flower and plant root extracts. Echinacea also contains alkamides that improve antioxidant activity.
Supports the immune system
Many studies show that echinacea helps the immune system fight infections and viruses, helping to speed up recovery. Therefore, it is often used to prevent or treat colds. A review of randomized trials shows that echinacea may reduce the risk of developing upper respiratory infections by 22%. At the same time, there is no significant evidence regarding the effect on the duration of the disease, so its effectiveness in treating the common cold is not yet clear.
Reduces anxiety
Recent research points to echinacea’s ability to reduce anxiety. The plant contains alkamides, rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, which may have a calming effect. In one study, taking 40 mg of echinacea extract twice a day for a week significantly reduced anxiety compared to a placebo. However, another study did not find a significant reduction in anxiety, but did show an improvement in emotional well-being. More research is needed to fully evaluate the effectiveness of echinacea.
It has anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a natural process that helps the body heal and fight disease. However, prolonged inflammation can lead to chronic infections. Research shows that echinacea can reduce excessive inflammation. For example, in a study on mice, echinacea produces compounds that reduce inflammatory symptoms and improve cognitive function. Another study in adults with osteoarthritis found that ginger and echinacea extracts reduced swelling, pain, and inflammation. A review of 105 studies confirms that echinacea reduces the levels of markers such as IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor.
Improves skin condition
Echinacea can help treat a number of skin problems. Studies have shown that echinacea products help relieve acne symptoms and promote skin hydration and wrinkle reduction. Cream with purple echinacea extract is also effective in treating eczema and helps restore the skin’s protective layer. However, the extract has a short shelf life, making it difficult to use in commercial cosmetics.
It can protect against cancer
In vitro studies show that echinacea can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote their death. For example, Echinacea purpurea extract and chicoric acid stimulate apoptosis of cancer cells. Although there is currently no evidence that echinacea interacts with traditional cancer treatments, new human studies may show the potential.
Echinacea side effects
In general, echinacea is safe for short-term use. Possible side effects include mild digestive problems and rashes. Rarely, allergic reactions such as hives, swelling or anaphylaxis may occur. People with autoimmune diseases or taking immunosuppressive medications should consult a doctor before using echinacea.
How do you use Echinacea?
Echinacea products vary in composition and concentration, making it difficult to determine a standard dose. However, research suggests that the following doses may be effective in supporting the immune system:
– Dry extract: 300-500 mg three times a day.
– Tincture: 2.5 ml 3 times a day or up to 10 ml per day.
The material is for informational purposes only. Before you make a decision, talk to an expert.
2024-10-14 10:05:00
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